A gas diffusion electrode and electrolysis cells containing gas diffusion electrodes are provided. The gas diffusion electrodes include a copper-containing carrier, and first and second layers. The first layer comprising at least copper and at least one binder having hydrophilic and hydrophobic pores. The second layer comprising copper and at least one binder. The second layer present atop the carrier and the first layer atop the second layer, wherein the content of binder in the first layer is less than the binder in the second layer.